Last day of the trip with any non travel activities. Woke up with the news that flights into Melbourne have stopped and face major disruptions due to South American volcano from last week, I’ll see if ghat causes any problems tomorrow.

As I had a 5 pm flight after breakfast I went for a last walk around Anchorage taking the trail around the coast and pass the train line. Gorgeous place, I could see how far the tide comes in as well, no wildlife today, just joggers.

From here I visited the local mall and just walked around. I was reminded of how cheap goods are here especially electronic games. Was very tempted to buy but I barely have time for Tiger Woods 12. Used free Internet in hotel to start posting photos from my old blog into Facebook.

Organized shuttle to airport was on time. Checkin had me in seat 28A at the back of the plane. $20 poorer and no pat downs and I was quickly airside. A McDonald’s lunch later (I know terrible) and I walked around the airport listening to ABC 774 radio over iPhone with free wi fi. Good way to start getting a little homesick.

Btw in Alaska they don’t have sales tax so the advertised price is the final price, only place in the USA I’ve notice who do take. I suppose the oil revenue is enough revenue for the Government.

The plane boarded early and I wasn’t paying attention. While I wasn’t last onto the plane that was by chance I just happened to be walking by the gate when I wondered if I should check boarding time. Almost caused myself some grief.

Plane was only about 65% full. They offered Internet access in flight for $5 so I was in, especially given this is a 5 hour flight although the turn it off while we were over Canada.